In Loving Memory of Caroline Goodson Birkholz

February 4, 1931 – June 2, 2025

Caroline Goodson Birkholz, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully in Irving, Texas on June 2, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born in Tracy City, Tennessee, on February 4, 1931, to George and Frances Goodson, Caroline lived a life rooted in kindness, faith, and family. She carried the values of her upbringing with grace, sharing them with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Caroline was a faithful servant of God and a lifelong Episcopalian. Her father and older brother were both priests. Growing up, she was a devoted member of Grace Episcopal Church in Weslaco, Texas, where her father was a priest. Starting her family with her husband, Vernon Birkholz, Caroline and her family, were members of the Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, Texas. In 1966 her family moved to Irving, Texas, where for over 20 years her and her family were members of St. Marks Episcopal Church in Irving. In 1995, Caroline and Vernon transferred to the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Irving. At each of these parishes she found spiritual strength, community, and purpose. Her faith guided her every step, and she lived her life as a quiet example of grace, compassion, and humility.

She was preceded in death in 2023 of her loving and devoted husband, Vernon Birkholz. Together, they built a family filled with love, laughter, and enduring bonds. She is survived by her children: George Birkholz and his wife DaLynn, Fran Morgan and her husband Dale, Kathy O'Hanlon, William Birkholz, and Gerry Birkholz. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, including Chris and Nikki O'Hanlon, and through the countless lives she touched.

Caroline was devoted to her husband and children, supporting them and organizing family gatherings, even after the children moved away, starting their own journeys in life with college, careers, and/or families of their own. It was always a lively gathering for food and fellowship around the dining table.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures—gardening in the sun filled backyard, gathering with family or friends, and taking peaceful vacations to South Padre Island in south Texas or back to her ancestral home at Sewanee in the mountains in Tennessee. Caroline's gentle spirit, unshakable strength, and enduring love will be remembered always.

A memorial service will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Irving to celebrate Caroline's life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Irving, Texas.

Caroline's life was a testament to love, resilience, and support. She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.